Peptide Profile
Cortexin
Bovine cerebral cortex-derived polypeptide preparation with nootropic, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties used clinically in Russia for cerebrovascular disorders, cognitive impairment, and pediatric neurology
Dose Range
5-10mg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Intramuscular (IM) injection
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Onset
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence
Limited
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
Complex mixture — no single molecular formula (contains multiple low molecular weight polypeptide fractions, L-amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements)
Molecular Formula
Low molecular weight water-soluble polypeptide fractions — specific molecular weight distribution varies as a complex biological mixture
Molecular Weight
Approximately 2-6 hours (varies by route of administration)
Half-Life
~85-100% (intramuscular injection)
Bioavailability
Not assigned (biological mixture)
CAS #
Not available (complex biological preparation)
PubChem Status
Developed By · Research ongoing
Academic research consortium
Multiple research institutions
Primary Benefits
Amino Acid Sequence
Complex mixture of polypeptide fragments derived from bovine cerebral cortex — no single defined amino acid sequenceDosing
How much
do I take?
Timing
Best time to take
Morning administration is recommended to avoid potential agitation or sleep disturbance. If two injections per day are prescribed, give the second injection no later than mid-afternoon.
With food?
Administration is by injection and independent of food intake.
If stacking
If combining Cortexin with other peptides or supplements, space administrations by at least 15-30 minutes when possible. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining with prescription medications.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've tolerated the current dose for the recommended period without significant side effects
- +Therapeutic goals haven't been met at the current dose level
- +Your healthcare provider recommends dose escalation based on your response
- +Lab work or clinical assessments support a higher dose
Decrease if
- -Side effects are bothersome or impacting daily life despite management strategies
- -You experience any signs of an adverse reaction
- -Lab results indicate the need for dose reduction
- -Your healthcare provider recommends a lower dose based on your response
Signs of right dose
- ✓Therapeutic goals being met with minimal side effects
- ✓Stable and consistent response to treatment
- ✓Lab values or clinical markers trending in the right direction
- ✓Good tolerance with manageable or absent side effects
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
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Suitability
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right for me?
Best For
Cognitive support in chronic cerebral ischemia and cerebrovascular disease
Cortexin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on cognitive support in chronic cerebral ischemia and cerebrovascular disease. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Neuroprotection and neurorecovery following stroke or traumatic brain injury
Cortexin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on neuroprotection and neurorecovery following stroke or traumatic brain injury. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Pediatric neurology including cerebral palsy and developmental delays
Cortexin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on pediatric neurology including cerebral palsy and developmental delays. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Adjunctive treatment in epilepsy management
Cortexin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on adjunctive treatment in epilepsy management. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×Known hypersensitivity to Cortexin or any component including glycine stabilizer
- ×Allergy to bovine-derived biological products
- ×Pregnancy — insufficient safety data for use during pregnancy
- ×Breastfeeding — insufficient data on excretion into breast milk
Use with caution if
- !You are taking other medications—discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider
- !You have a history of liver or kidney disease
- !You are elderly or have multiple medical conditions
- !You are planning surgery in the near future—inform your surgeon about Cortexin use
- !You have any chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Cortexin vial (lyophilized powder or solution)
- •Bacteriostatic water or sterile sodium chloride for reconstitution
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops and injection sites
- •Appropriately sized syringes with fine-gauge needles (27-30 gauge)
- •Sharps disposal container
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (into the fatty tissue just under the skin)—allows for consistent absorption and can be self-administered at home after proper training
Best sites
- •Abdomen (stomach area)—at least 2 inches from the belly button, most popular choice for self-injection
- •Front of thighs—middle to upper portion of the outer leg
- •Back of upper arm—outer area (may need assistance from another person)
Technique
- 1.Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling supplies
- 2.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry completely
- 3.Pinch a fold of skin at the chosen injection site
- 4.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (depending on needle length and body composition)
- 5.Inject the medication slowly and steadily over 5-10 seconds
- 6.Release the skin fold and remove the needle, applying gentle pressure with a clean swab
- 7.Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue irritation or lipodystrophy
- 8.Dispose of the needle safely in a sharps container—never recap or reuse needles
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
Cortexin is a porcine brain-derived polypeptide preparation used in Russian neurology that is not FDA-approved and has no Western rigorous safety data. As an undefined mixture of peptides and proteins extracted from animal brains, batch standardization and quality control are not guaranteed. Concerns include potential transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE/prion) risk from animal CNS tissue, although documented cases have not been reported. Allergic reactions to porcine proteins are possible. No formal human safety assessments, toxicology studies, or clinical trials by modern regulatory standards have been conducted. Use in Western countries is essentially non-existent due to regulatory limitations on animal-derived neurological products.
Evidence is limited to observational clinical use in Russian and post-Soviet medical practice spanning several decades and small open-label clinical studies published predominantly in Russian-language journals. No preclinical toxicology, human Phase 1 data, formal safety monitoring, or randomized controlled trials exist. Published reports focus on clinical efficacy claims rather than comprehensive safety characterization.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Injection site reactions
Cortexin is administered as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder reconstituted with saline and injected intramuscularly. Local injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling) occur in 8-15% of patients. Reactions are typically mild, localized to the deltoid or gluteal injection area, and resolve spontaneously within 24-72 hours. Pain at injection is most common (8-12% of patients), followed by erythema or swelling. Incidence increases with repeated injections or with improper injection technique.
Management: Rotate injection sites systematically between left and right deltoid or gluteal muscles—use different sites for each of 10 consecutive injections. Use proper IM injection technique with fine-gauge needle (25-27 gauge) and inject slowly. Apply warm (not cold) compress to site if soreness persists beyond 2 hours. Topical analgesic cream may help. Massage the area gently after injection. Reactions typically resolve without intervention within 24-72 hours.
Headache
Headache is reported in approximately 5-12% of Cortexin patients, usually mild to moderate intensity and occurring during or within 2-4 hours of injection. Characteristically resolves within 2-4 hours without specific treatment. More common in the first few injections of a 10-day course and frequency typically decreases with subsequent injections. Mechanism may relate to rapid BBB penetration of neuropeptide fractions or GABAergic effects on vasculature.
Management: Usually transient and self-resolving within 2-4 hours. Acetaminophen (500-1000 mg) or ibuprofen (400 mg) provides relief if needed. Ensure adequate hydration before and after injection. Headaches on initial injections often improve or disappear by day 3-4 of treatment course. If headache is severe or persistent (>4 hours), dose reduction may be considered.
Dizziness
Dizziness or lightheadedness is reported in 3-8% of Cortexin patients, typically mild and occurring within 30 minutes of IM injection. Episodes are usually brief (20-60 minutes) and self-limited. More common with higher doses (10 mg vs 5 mg) or with afternoon administration. Related to GABAergic modulation or transient hemodynamic effects. True vertigo (sensation of room spinning) is uncommon (<1%).
Management: Rest in a safe location (lying down or seated) until symptoms resolve. Avoid driving or operating machinery for at least 2-4 hours after injection. Ensure adequate hydration and avoid rapid position changes. Administer injections in the morning when possible. Dizziness typically resolves spontaneously within 20-60 minutes without specific treatment.
Nausea
Nausea occurs in approximately 2-4% of Cortexin patients, usually mild and very brief (15-45 minutes). Gastric effects typically resolve without specific treatment. More common with IM administration than theoretical rectal administration. Usually occurs within 30 minutes of injection. Mechanism likely relates to the polypeptide mixture stimulating GI sensory neurons or GABAergic effects.
Management: Usually brief and self-limiting without specific treatment. Ensure patient is well-hydrated before and after injection. Small frequent meals or light snacks during treatment course may help. Ginger tea may provide symptomatic relief. Antiemetics are rarely needed; nausea resolves spontaneously in the vast majority of cases. Nausea on repeat injections often improves or disappears.
Agitation or restlessness
Agitation, nervousness, or restlessness is reported in 1-3% of Cortexin patients, more common at higher doses (10 mg vs 5 mg) or with afternoon/evening administration. Characterized by inability to sit still, nervousness, or mild irritability lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours after injection. Likely relates to GABAergic tone shifts or peptide-mediated cholinergic effects on CNS. More common on initial injections of a course.
Management: More likely at higher doses (10 mg)—patients experiencing agitation may benefit from dose reduction to 5 mg if clinically appropriate. Administer injections in the morning (before 2 PM) to avoid nighttime sleep disruption. Patients should engage in calm, quiet activities for 1-2 hours after injection if agitation occurs. Symptoms typically resolve without specific intervention within 1-3 hours.
Transient blood pressure changes
Transient blood pressure elevation (systolic BP increase of 5-15 mmHg) occurs in approximately 1-3% of Cortexin patients, characteristically mild and clinically insignificant. More common in hypertensive patients or with higher doses. Effects are transient, typically lasting 30-90 minutes after injection. Diastolic pressure typically increases minimally. Mechanism may relate to neuropeptide stimulation of sympathetic tone.
Management: Monitor blood pressure in hypertensive patients during initial treatment course to establish baseline changes. Changes are typically clinically insignificant and require no intervention. Ensure adequate hydration and avoid sodium loading during treatment. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension should discuss Cortexin use with their physician before starting. BP typically returns to baseline within 1-2 hours after injection.
Less Common
- •Allergic reactions
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
- ×Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- ×Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
- ×Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Cortexin
- ×Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
- ×Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects
Cortexin should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓No known direct interaction with Cortexin. BPC-157 is sometimes used for its gut-protective properties, which could theoretically help manage GI side effects.
With medications
- ✓Blood thinners (warfarin, heparin) - Monitor closely if combining with Cortexin as interactions may affect bleeding risk or drug metabolism.
With supplements
- ✓Multivitamins - Generally safe to take alongside Cortexin. Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
- ✓Electrolyte supplements - Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
What to Expect
Days 1-3
What you might notice
- •Polypeptide fractions begin crossing the blood-brain barrier and activating neurotrophic signaling pathways
- •Some patients may notice subtle improvements in alertness and concentration
- •GABAergic effects may provide mild anxiolytic benefits early in the treatment course
What's normal
- •Initial response to Cortexin is beginning at the cellular level
- •Different individuals experience Cortexin's onset at different rates
- •Transient systemic effects from initial Cortexin exposure are common
What's next
- →Maintain consistent Cortexin administration as prescribed
- →Document subjective effects and physical markers daily
- →Schedule a check-in with your provider about initial observations
Days 4-10
What you might notice
- •Cumulative neuroprotective and nootropic effects develop as the full 10-day treatment course progresses
- •Antioxidant balance restoration occurs in brain tissue
- •Measurable improvements in cognitive test scores (MMSE, clock drawing test) and reduction in neuronal damage biomarkers (NSE) may become apparent
What's normal
- •Cortexin is achieving sufficient receptor engagement
- •Initial mechanism of Cortexin is taking effect
- •Early transient effects from Cortexin administration are resolving
What's next
- →Maintain consistent Cortexin administration as prescribed
- →Document subjective effects and physical markers daily
- →Schedule a check-in with your provider about initial observations
Weeks 2-8
What you might notice
- •Therapeutic effects continue and may increase after the treatment course ends
- •Animal studies demonstrate that memory improvements and hippocampal protection persist for at least 10 days after the last injection
- •Clinical benefits in cognitive function and neurological status are maintained during this consolidation period
What's normal
- •Cortexin is now achieving steady-state pharmacokinetics
- •Measurable changes aligned with Cortexin's mechanism may appear
- •Initial adjustment effects typically resolve by this point
What's next
- →Maintain Cortexin dosing exactly as established
- →Track progress toward intended outcomes in detail
- →Review lab work or biomarker changes with your healthcare team
Months 3-6+
What you might notice
- •Repeated treatment courses at 3-6 month intervals provide cumulative and sustained benefits
- •For chronic conditions such as cerebrovascular disease and cognitive impairment, multiple courses per year are recommended
- •Long-term clinical experience in Russia supports the safety and sustained efficacy of repeated course therapy
What's normal
- •Full therapeutic effects of Cortexin are well-characterized at this point
- •Maintenance of Cortexin's therapeutic effects is typical
- •Tolerance patterns with Cortexin are generally stable over months
What's next
- →Comprehensive assessment of Cortexin efficacy should be conducted
- →Discuss long-term continuation, cycling, or protocol modifications
- →Continue regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers or symptoms
Signs It's Working
Treatment Response
- ✓Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
- ✓Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
- ✓Consistent, stable response to Cortexin over time
- ✓Reduction in symptom frequency or severity
General Well-being
- ✓Improved energy levels and daily functioning
- ✓Better quality of life related to the treated condition
- ✓Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
- ✓Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
- •Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
- •Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
- •Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
- •Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
- •Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions
Key Research
"Molecular mechanisms of brain peptide-containing drugs: cortexin"
Gromova OA, Torshin IY, Semenov VA et al., 2018
Finding: Cortexin works through multiple protective mechanisms: it balances the oxidative stress that damages aging brains, turns off destructive inflammatory proteins, and binds directly to key structural proteins in brain cells. This multi-pronged approach is what makes the peptide complex so effective at protecting neural tissue from damage.
View Study"Cortexin: Molecular mechanisms and targets of neuroprotective activity"
Gomazkov OA, 2015
Finding: Cortexin's brain peptides act like a multi-tool repair kit, protecting neurons at every level from chemical signals between cells all the way up to controlling which genes get turned on in the nucleus. This comprehensive approach means the drug can protect the brain from damage in many different ways simultaneously.
View Study"Neurotropic Effects of Cortexin on Models of Mental and Physical Developmental Delay"
Kurkin DV, Bakulin DA, Morkovin EI et al., 2025
Finding: When given to developing animals with brain damage, Cortexin improved motor control and reduced structural brain injury whether injected into muscle or delivered rectally. Scientists proved the peptides actually enter the bloodstream and penetrate the brain's protective barrier using radioactive tracer studies.
View Study"Comparative study of protective effects of Cortexin, Cerebrolysin and Actovegin on memory impairment and hippocampal changes in chronic brain ischemia"
Tyurenkov IN, Kurkin DV, Kalatanova AV et al., 2020
Finding: Cortexin matched the memory-restoring power of Cerebrolysin in rats with chronic stroke-like brain damage, and the benefits lasted for 10 days even after treatment stopped. Both drugs fixed the damaged memory centers in the brain equally well, suggesting Cortexin is a potent alternative for brain ischemia.
View Study"Results of the CORNELia multicenter study evaluating Cortexin and Neuromexol in chronic cerebrovascular pathology with cognitive impairment"
Mashin VV, Belova LA, Kotova EY et al., 2023
Finding: In a study of 801 patients with chronic blood flow problems to the brain, Cortexin combined with another treatment boosted mental test scores, melted away depression, and cut brain damage markers in half. This real-world evidence from hundreds of patients confirms the drug's brain-protecting power works in humans.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions